The City of Seward issued a public notice for Lowell Canyon and Lowell Point Road. Contractors with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will start seismic and survey work efforts in preparation for a new tunnel project.
Seward City Manager Janette Bower writes that, Lowell Canyon west of the current tunnel and diversion dam will be closed during construction efforts beginning on Tuesday July 12 through the 15. Expect a delineated work section with cones and tape. She also writes that on Saturday July 16 through the 20, efforts will start in the outflow area by the bridge and waterfall. Contractors will be working during the low tide times and will start four hours prior to low tide and finish each day three-to-four hours after low tide.
Bower adds that flaggers will control traffic during these times and intermittent delays of up to 15 minutes could be expected. Through traffic will still be two lanes but will have slower speeds posted for the construction area. The seismic work will involve light underground blasts that will mostly be inaudible and shouldn’t be felt more than ten feet away. Sensor cables will have to cross the road and will be covered so traffic can go over the bumps slowly. Additionally, the roadsides and beach area around the bridge will be closed during work times for all vehicles, pedestrians, and bikes. Through traffic only will be permitted during construction times.
Bower concludes that the contractors are hoping to finish early and make every effort to minimize traffic delays.